IGCSE Sociology: Research Aims and Choice of Topic Quiz

What is a research aim in sociology?

• A detailed step-by-step method for conducting research

• The overall purpose or goal of the research

• The type of research method used

• The hypothesis being tested

Which of the following factors can influence a sociologist’s choice of research topic?

• Personal interests

• Funding availability

• Ethical considerations

• All of the above

Why might funding affect a sociologist’s choice of research topic?

• Researchers are always funded by the government

• Some topics are more likely to receive financial support than others

• Funding is not necessary for sociological research

• Sociologists must personally finance all their research

How do ethical considerations influence research topics?

• Sociologists avoid topics that may harm participants

• Ethics do not play a role in choosing a topic

• Sociologists prefer controversial topics regardless of ethical concerns

• Ethical guidelines only apply after research has been completed

Which of the following is an example of a research aim?

• To investigate the impact of social media on teenage mental health

• Teenagers spend more time on social media than adults

• What is the best way to study social media use?

• A questionnaire will be used to collect data from teenagers

A research aim should always be broad and general.

• True

• False

Government priorities and social issues can shape sociologists' choice of research topic.

• True

• False

Sociologists must always choose topics that support the views of those who provide funding.

• True

• False

Practical considerations, such as access to participants, can influence the choice of topic.

• True

• False

All sociological research topics must be based on previous research findings.

• True

• False